Story by: Alekzander Jenkins 

First Coast residents’ risk of having swimming spots open due to a dwindling number of lifeguards; this also results in increased risks for residents in pools and on the beach. 

It is a trend seen across the First Coast, but it is not a new one, according to UNF Competition Pool Complex Senior Coordinator Jeni Ritter. 

“I would say a good 10 to 15 years,” Ritter said. “Defiantly post Covid it hurt a lot.”  

This lack of lifeguards has resulted in pools being unable to open safely, and even forcing some to close. 

“That happened a little this past summer,” Ritter said. “They had to close some of their pools because they couldn’t be fully staffed.” 

It is not just pools that suffer due to a lack of lifeguards; beaches also suffer from lifeguard shortages. Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue Lifeguard Nina Iveson said the number of people not applying could be the result of the tasks required. 

“I think it is the fact that you’re in charge of other people’s lives,” Iveson said. “But being confident in your skills and in your training is the biggest thing that helps me.” 

First Coast residents can help relieve the problem by looking into becoming lifeguards. Lifeguarding is open to residents of all ages, and many facilities are willing to pay for and train residents for the position. 

Story by: Ethan Leckie 

Having a place to live is a person’s biggest need. However, as rent prices continue to rise in Jacksonville, residents are struggling to afford housing.  

Jacksonville’s rent issues are nothing new. According to a recent report from the Jax Housing Project, rent prices in Duval County have increased by almost 40 percent in the last two years.  

As a result, the cost of rent takes a significant bite out of residents’ incomes. Another study done by Harvard University reported that half of Duval County residents are cost-burdened, which is defined as spending a third of one’s income on rent. 

Dr. David Jaffee, a founding member of the Jax Tenants Union, believes that collective action is the key to protecting renters from increasing rent prices and predatory landlords. After heading the Jax Housing Project, Jaffee saw the need for an organization to help negotiate fairer costs of living for renters in Jacksonville.  

Years of rent increases have worsened the situation for residents in Jacksonville. One of these tenants, Em Meurer, rents a home with two other roommates. Because a corporate landlord manages the property, rent is a consistent problem. 

Despite their best efforts, Meurer’s limited income has made it difficult to maintain a quality standard of living. 

“Being a tenant in Jacksonville is challenging. If you can find a place with one or two other roommates, it’s usually in an unsafe side of town. If rent were cheaper, I could find a place just for me and better be able to put my money into the economy,” said Meurer. 

Story by: Angelica Santini 

If you are craving some fruity fun and good times, then you are in luck because Clay County’s 8th Annual Strawberry Festival is just around the corner. Let us dive into what makes this event so awesome and why you do not want to miss out. 

Picture this: rows upon rows of the juiciest, most mouthwatering strawberries you have ever seen. From classic strawberry shortcakes to strawberry lemonades, there is no shortage of creative ways to indulge in the springtime fruit.  

As if all the strawberry goodness was not enough, the festival is also a paradise for foodies of all kinds. From sizzling BBQ to cheesy nachos and everything in between, you will find yourself in heaven with so many delicious options to choose from. While you are chowing down, make sure to groove along to the live music, check out artsy crafts, and even challenge your friends to a game or two. 

Grab your crew, put on your comfiest shoes, and get ready for a day packed with strawberry-infused fun. Whether you are a hardcore foodie, a music lover, or just someone who enjoys a good time, the Strawberry Festival has something for everyone.  

Clay County’s 8th Annual Strawberry Festival is the ultimate springtime party you did not know you needed. Mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready to join this fruity festival.